Bonfire night disruption down by 60 per cent in Abbeydale

Alex Moore

An extra police presence cut antisocial behaviour on bonfire night by 60 per cent in a Sheffield neighbourhood.

There were significant problems in the Abbeydale area in the week leading up to November 5 last year. with residents reporting numerous incidents.

Lantern parade in Abbeydale Road.

South Yorkshire Police and Sheffield Council made the area a priority this year, working closely with the community and other partners.

And the extra presence led to a 60 per cent reduction in anti-social behaviour in the seven days before bonfire night.

Chief inspector Lydia Lynskey said: “The reduction in antisocial behaviour in the Abbeydale Road area comes as a direct result of police and partners working with our local communities.

“It is encouraging to see such a significant reduction in antisocial behaviour over what tends to be a very busy weekend across South Yorkshire, and we thank the public for their help and support throughout this period.

“We also saw another incredibly successful lantern parade in Darnall, where hundreds of people came together as a community to celebrate bonfire night. Again, events such as this would not be possible without the support of residents, businesses and community groups.

“That said, we maintained a robust approach to anyone found committing a crime or engaging in antisocial behaviour and a number of people were arrested, fireworks seized and a number of youths received parental advisory letters and acceptable behaviour contracts.

“We are determined to work with our local residents to ensure that they feel safe in their communities.”

The council and police set up activities for young people, improved lighting and safety in key areas and organised Abbeydale’s first lantern parade, which was attended by more than 200 people.

Cabinet member for housing Jayne Dunn said: “We’ve been working very closely with the police and local people to discourage anti-social behaviour and I’m really pleased the bonfire celebrations went off so well.

“Local councillors have done an excellent job as have all those who have worked so hard on this. We’re not stopping here though, and will continue to work in partnership to build on what’s already been achieved.”